Kasol is a quaint little village in Himachal situated along the banks of the river Parvati. Commonly known as the 'Amsterdam of India', Kasol is a tourist attraction that is rapidly gaining fame as a popular hub for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers. The valley is situated 23 kms from Bhuntar and next to the religious town of Manikaran and is one of the best places in the country just to sit back and chill in the panorama of snow-clad mountains, pine trees and serene river.
Famous for its trekking trails, Kasol is popular for several treks to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parbati Pass. To get a real feel of the culture in this region, go on a trip to the village of Malana. Located a few kilometres away from Kasol, Malana is a tiny hamlet inhabited by people living in self-imposed isolation. The village has plenty of scenic sights, though, and is often called ‘Little Greece’.
Kasol is inhabited by a huge number of people from Israel, which is discernible from the plenteously available Israeli food, and the street signposts inscribed in Hebrew. The valley has quite a few streetside cafes which serve delicious food, and the experience of sitting and enjoying a meal amidst the dark green forests and the awe-inspiring mountains make the meal even more enjoyable. Don't forget to visit the flea market which sells a variety of items, such as trinkets, souvenirs, pendants, and even semi-precious stones on your way back home!
Kasol being a part of a multireligious, multicultural as well as multilingual state follows the Himachali culture and religion itself. As a result of huge tourist bustle, the place is multicultural. You will find people of different cultures, speaking different languages on board. There is one school in Kasol. The locals live in small colourful huts. Most of them run cafes and others are local tourist guides. Kasol has a culture which is greatly influenced by Israelis. It has become a home to many Israelis who after falling in love with its beauty never thought of returning. For them, Kasol has homely feels with white sand near Parvati river and wild charas which is also found in Israel. Israelis are the owner of more than half of the population in Kasol. This is the reason Kasol is also called "The Mini Israel of India". As a result, Kasol's cuisine has an addition of German, Italian and Israeli food. The modern culture of Israel has resulted in the night and rave parties. However, these parties are illegal, and if caught then it may take the offender behind bars. But, as a word to the wise is enough, beware!
Events and Festivals
Summer Hills Festival This is the most mind-blowing party which takes place at the end of June every year. It's time to bid a goodbye to hot summers and embrace the serenity of cool breeze in Kasol. The Summer Hill festival is always ready to stun you with its amazing arrangements that are made in the laps of nature. Partying in a valley full of lush green trees and a river flowing beside is perplexing. The Festival is stretched on a map of 2 days. The music festival is the way of nature to enliven one's soul. Its aura is full of music so great, environment so poise, social gatherings so lively and food so captivating. The nights are spent dancing beneath the sky full of twinkling stars within the surroundings so exuberant. You are even provided with personal tents for your resting periods. Interactive group activities such as group discussions, face paintings, bonfire, cleanliness drive, etc take place. This helps people to get involved in a cultural interaction with each other. A day pass costs you INR 1000 whereas two days pass cost you a sum of INR 1500 per person. Spot entry is also available.
Indrasan Festival It happens around the last week of May. Crazy fans of Psytrance flood this music festival. The festival has been ruling the Valley since the year 2009. The platform is to set you free. Use of any audio or video equipment is strictly prohibited in the part premises. The festival with energetic vibes also serves a social cause by promoting afforestation. It celebrates collective love for a period of 5 days and 4 nights. Many famous names of the music genre, come together to make this festival a success.
Daily Budget
The hotel prices vary between INR 500 to INR 15000 and above per night. Choosing a good low budget hotel will cost you around INR 600 per night. Coming to the food, you can get food at way too cheaper prices. A meal for 2 will cost you INR 300 at local cafes. Next, local cabs and jeeps will cost you INR 600 as a group. Also, if on a small budget then try choosing local buses which will take you to nearby places at minimal prices. In a nutshell, you need to have a sum of INR 7000 for one person if you choose budget hotels and are wishing to spend a week over here.
Restaurants and Local Food in Kasol
Kasol, a hill station located in Northern part of India serves North India cuisine in many eating joints. However, being a hub of a large number of Israelis, this remote area with its jazzy cafes and liquor vends blends the Indian and non-Indian culture with perfection. Shakshouka is one of the mouthwatering dishes of the place consisting of poached eggs dipped in tangy tomato curry served with hummus and pita bread.
Near the bridge is Shambhu Momo Stall which undoubtedly serves the most delicious momos in the valley. You need to try his fried momos. View Top Restaurants in Kasol
Suggested Itinerary for Kasol
Day 1 - Reach Kasol, preferably by noon and take some rest. In the evening, you can go to the main market for a stroll, especially where you can buy precious curios and souvenirs that you can take home for your families. Day 2 - The 2nd day should be the ideal time for starting your trip through Kasol. You can start with some blessings and sightseeing at the Manikaran Gurudwara. Thereon, you can proceed to trek at Kheer Ganga. Day 3 - This day can be reserved for a visit to the beautiful Parvati River, of if you prefer, proceed towards the trekking hotspots like Tosh.
The top things to do in Kasol are Kheerganga Trek, Trekking in Kasol, Tosh, Parvati River, Malana, Pin Parvati Pass. You can see all the places to visit in Kasol here
What is famous about Kasol?
A paradise for adventurers and nature lovers in Himachal.
What is not so good about Kasol?
Difficult to access as not directly connected by flights and trains. Avoidable after Autumn due to the extreme cold.
Who should visit Kasol?
Ideal for both nature devotees and fearless, bold backpackers. Also suitable for tourists touring nearby sites like Shimla, Palampur, Kullu, Manali etc.
What is the best time to visit Kasol?
October to June is the best time to visit Kasol. Although Kasol experiences good weather throughout the year, the ideal time to explore the wilderness of the place is from March to May. At this time of the year, the weather is pleasant with the temperature ranging from 15 - 22 degrees Celsius. However, if you are fond of strolling in chilly nights and cool evening winds, winters, i.e. from October to February is the right season for you. The temperature during the season usually varies from 3 to 10 degrees Celsius and the roads leading to Kasol might be blocked because of snow. Read More
What is the local food in Kasol?
Kasol, a hill station located in Northern part of India serves North India cuisine in many eating joints. However, being a hub of a large number of Israelis, this remote area with its jazzy cafes and liquor vends blends the Indian and non-Indian culture with perfection. Shakshouka is one of the mouthwatering dishes of the place consisting of poached eggs dipped in tangy tomato curry served with hummus and pita bread.
Near the bridge is Shambhu Momo Stall which undoubtedly serves the most delicious momos in the valley. You need to try his fried momos. Read More
What is the best way to reach Kasol?
Owing to the high altitude, Kasol is well connected to the rest of India only by well-connected roadways. Regular bus services ply to and fro the city of Kasol; buses being operated both by private and government owners. There is no direct flight or rail connectivity to Kasol. 31 km away is the Bhuntar airport near Kullu, which is the nearest airport that connects Kasol to the rest of India. The nearest railway station to Kasol is in Joginder Nagar, which is 145 km away from Kasol, in terms of narrow gauge. Broad gauge wise, Pathankot is the nearest railway station available.
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How much does a package cost for Kasol?
The packages for Kasol start at INR 6500 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here
What are the top hotels in Kasol?
There are 110 in Kasol which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Kasol are Kabila Camps, Apple Garden Camps, SKYLAND CAMPS AND CAFE, Pink house kasol, The Five Dimensions Resort, Summer hills camping. You can see all the hotels in Kasol here
What are the places near Kasol?
The top places near to Kasol are Manali which is 28 km from Kasol, Kullu which is located 20 km from Kasol, Shimla which is located 101 km from Kasol, Mcleodganj which is located 98 km from Kasol, Dalhousie which is located 138 km from Kasol
Have a Question on Kasol?
Ask a question from the travellers who have experience.
Not really. Although the atmosphere around there is quite good, it might be a little unsafe in the night especially with drunk people from India roaming the streets. Also, everyone knows for a fact t (Read More)hat mafia runs around that area, so you never know!
For women traveling solo, Kasol is a relatively safer place compared to most of other parts of India. However, taking basic precautions around safety is highly recommended.
Kasol is probably the first place which comes to everyone's minds when they think about escaping their homes and the city life. Situated in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, it is a haven for t (Read More)rekkers and backpackers. Be ready to experience a nomadic lifestyle when you visit, as it is one of the most life changing experiences for any person. I personally found it challenging at times to lug around my rucksack, across unkept trails and long and winding paths, but at the end it was always worth it. I had gone with my friends and we chose to camp by the river. We had bonfires and jam sessions. The food served at the camp was rustic but was warm enough to fill both our stomach and souls. The main town of Kasol is filled with cafes. In these cafes you will find a lot of tourists as well who come to escape from their own hectic lives and share their stories and sorrows with each other and the locals. Be sure to also visit some of the local cafes. They make some of the best croissants I ever had!!
Sanjana Chawla
6 years ago
Situated in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh- Kasol is the go-to place for all the people who love carrying backpacks on their backs and trekking. Surrounded by the beautiful picturesque hills (Read More)and serene Parvati river, Kasol is a great weekend getaway. I visited this small town the previous year in October and got to experience the best of all. The place is just perfect to be visited by college students as it unfurls a lot for you. Almost everything is in close proximity and one can easily walk to Chalal Valley and enjoy the walks by the river and streams. Kasol, being on the greener side looks beautiful and fresh and is perfect for the stargazing! I loved watching the infinite stars with the bonfire on the riverside in the night when it was all dark and quiet. Tosh valley, situated close to Kasol is also a must visit as the trek up there is long and tiring but it’s worth the sweat! The view down from there is as good as a scene out of the Yash Raj movies! My group further trekked from tosh to a waterfall some several kilometres further and the cafe set up amidst the water was relaxing and perfect. Kasol has a trippy vibe and cafe culture all around. Famous for crepes, waffles and hot chocolates; you can find the best food, brownies and drinks at the Moon dance cafe, Evergreen cafe, Rainbow cafe in Kasol and Cafe Shiva in the Tosh valley. If you have a If you are somebody who loves coloured graphic tees or dainty jewelleries and dreamcatchers, you won't be disappointed as Kasol is full of such tiny gems and souvenirs. You can find everything from woollen scarves to trendy boots and relaxing ginger-honey tea to gulp down while having a peaceful time with your friends!
Aashimi Bhatia
6 years ago
- Kasol is quite famous for drugs and weeds like marijuana etc., so be careful. - The road journey is quite dangerous with needle point turns and extremely narrow roads. Make sure you are travelli (Read More)ng on a strudy vehicle.
